FROM COACH MAX: Southern California weather reports indicate that some geographical zones can expect to see temperatures approaching 100 degrees and maybe a little higher in some areas. The temperatures will be about the same, or cooler, as during summer tournaments (except that teams play two games a day in tournaments). CSL acknowledges that heat can be an issue during a game, and CSL’s Referee Associations will be given certain directives to protect the players. The referees on the field are required by Cal South to determine the status of all games and are told by CSL to give frequent water breaks. In fact, both coaches should be sure to ask the referee for water breaks before the game starts under the authority of CSL. Its necessary to keep the players hydrated…and the referees as well. Referees will be instructed by CSL to allow substitutions as often as the coach deems necessary, to require water breaks at a frequent interval, and to stop the game if he/she feels the safety of the players are at risk. We recommend the team advise its players to: 1. Wear sunscreen 2. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate – sip water regularly. Its a good idea to ‘spike’ the water with about 5 oz. of a sports drink for added sodium to replace what might be lost through sweating. 3. Bring Cool, Damp cloths – have them ready in a cooler for players when they come off the field. Place behind the neck or under the arms to keep body cool. The best thing for an overheated kid is to drench them with water. Mist makers and Ice are also great to have on hand! The team should have shade for players – being in shade when not in the game or at halftime will help keep the players cool; Monitor your athletes carefully and have Gatorade (or similar drink) for after the game to replenish electrolytes and sodium.
Posted on: Sat, 13 Sep 2014 17:00:30 +0000